EXCLUSIVE: “We thought Saka is their best player, but that guy stepped up and destroyed our entire defence today”: Slavia Prague coach names ONE Arsenal player who singlehandedly destroyed their entire defence today. Slavia Prague has discovered that Arsenal has another good player aside from Bukayo Saka.

Slavia Prague Left Shell-Shocked by Arsenal’s Unexpected Hero

In a stunning UEFA Champions League encounter on November 5, 2025, Arsenal dominated Slavia Prague with a commanding 3-0 victory that left the home team’s manager, Jindřich Trpišovský, shaking his head in disbelief. The Czech side had come into the game unbeaten in their domestic league and boasting five consecutive clean sheets across all competitions. However, Arsenal’s clinical performance exposed the fragility of their high-pressing system. Trpišovský, in an exclusive interview with Czech outlet iSport, acknowledged the impact of a player who caught them completely off guard: Mikel Merino.

The coach, who had prepared meticulously for Bukayo Saka’s threat, was forced to admit that Merino was the player who truly dismantled their defense. “We thought Saka is their best player, but that guy stepped up and destroyed our entire defence today,” Trpišovský confessed, naming the Spanish midfielder as the unexpected hero who left his team reeling.

A Game-Changing Substitute: Mikel Merino’s Impact

The match, held at the Fortuna Arena in Prague, was Arsenal’s fourth straight win in the Champions League group phase, and it solidified their perfect record in the competition this season, with 12 points from 12. Arsenal’s dominance was apparent from the start, with Saka opening the scoring from the penalty spot in the 32nd minute after a VAR-awarded handball by Slavia captain Lukáš Provod. But the real game-changer came in the second half when Mikel Merino was introduced at halftime for the injured Viktor Gyökeres.

Merino, who joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in the summer, had a significant impact almost immediately. Just a minute after the restart, he scored a towering header from a Declan Rice corner, which looped over the defense and crashed into the underside of the crossbar. The Gunners’ lead was doubled in the 68th minute, when Merino latched onto a perfectly timed through-ball from Leandro Trossard, shrugged off a desperate challenge from Slavia’s Martin Chaloupek, and rifled a powerful shot into the top corner of the net. Two goals in 22 minutes: Merino had not only sealed the win but had also etched his name into Arsenal’s European history.

Slavia’s Defensive Setback

Trpišovský, whose side had previously been praised for their defensive solidity, could only watch as Merino tore apart his defense. The coach admitted that despite their focus on neutralizing Saka, they were completely unprepared for the intensity Merino brought to the game. “We prepared meticulously for Saka – doubling up, fouling early to disrupt his rhythm. He got his goal, fair play, but Merino? We had no answer,” said Trpišovský. He went on to explain how Merino’s ability to drop deep and control the midfield before surging forward like a second striker was impossible for Slavia to handle.

Arsenal’s Depth Proved: Merino’s Quiet Rise

While Saka remains one of the brightest stars in world football, Merino’s performance has illuminated the depth of Arsenal’s squad and their collective capabilities. Signed for £27 million from Real Sociedad, Merino has been a revelation in Arsenal’s midfield. His ability to orchestrate play, break up opposition attacks, and score crucial goals has made him one of the most consistent performers for Mikel Arteta this season. With three goals and four assists in 14 appearances, Merino has quietly become an essential part of Arteta’s high-octane system.

In the post-match interview, Merino was quick to deflect praise, emphasizing the collective nature of Arsenal’s success. “Saka’s world-class, but we’re a unit. Tonight was for Viktor – get well soon,” he said, referring to Gyökeres, who had been forced off with a hamstring injury. Merino’s brace not only secured all three points for Arsenal but also preserved their remarkable defensive record, with the Gunners now on a run of eight consecutive clean sheets across all competitions.

A Historic Night for Arsenal: Young Talent Shines

Merino’s goals were not the only highlights of the evening. Arsenal’s defensive unit continued to impress, with goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale maintaining a clean sheet. At just 15 years old, academy talent Max Dowman made his debut as the youngest-ever Champions League player for Arsenal, replacing Merino late in the game. Dowman’s appearance further exemplified the depth and potential within the Gunners’ squad.

Arsenal’s Title Charge: Looking Ahead

With this win, Arsenal now sits comfortably atop their Champions League group, six points ahead of second-placed Bayern Munich, and with a perfect record of 12 points. This commanding victory is part of a larger momentum shift for Arteta’s team, as they continue their push for both domestic and European glory. The team will now turn their attention to an exciting upcoming fixture against Paris Saint-Germain at the Emirates Stadium, which promises to be a thrilling encounter.

Slavia Prague’s European Dream Flickers

On the other hand, Slavia Prague’s European campaign is in danger of unraveling. With just two points from their three group-stage matches, the Czech side is now facing an uphill battle to progress. Trpišovský’s side must regroup quickly as they look to salvage their Champions League aspirations, especially after being thoroughly outplayed by an Arsenal team that showed they are a force to be reckoned with.

A New Arsenal: Stars in Plain Sight

Back in London, Arsenal supporters are celebrating the win, with the hashtag #MerinoMagic trending worldwide. The excitement surrounding Merino’s performance has garnered widespread attention, with fans dubbing him “The Basque Bull” in reference to his powerful style of play. For many, Merino’s emergence as a key figure in Arsenal’s success serves as a reminder that the team is no longer reliant solely on Bukayo Saka to deliver the goods.

Mikel Arteta, for his part, deflected the individual praise for Merino, stating that the team’s success is built on unity and collective effort. “We thought Saka was the threat? Nah, it’s collective fire,” said Arteta, emphasizing the importance of the squad as a whole. This victory is a statement of intent from Arsenal, showcasing their newfound maturity and depth as they aim to challenge for major honors this season.

Arsenal’s Future Looks Bright

With Merino’s performance and the team’s overall strength, Arsenal looks poised to continue their title challenge. As they head into the business end of the season, Arteta’s squad is proving they have multiple players capable of stepping up when it matters most. Arsenal’s rise to prominence is no longer just about Bukayo Saka – it’s a team effort, and the Gunners are ready to take on all comers. As for Mikel Merino, his performance against Slavia Prague was a timely reminder that in this Arsenal side, stars are hiding in plain sight.